Size, wealth, people, places-these are but a few of what defines Shanghai as a city. It sits next to the sea making it an important trading port as well as a stopover for sea dwelling vessels. Over the years it has seen the world change rapidly but in the eyes of the whole world, it seemed more like Shanghai took change more seriously.

It is said that if a man had lived his whole life in Shanghai, he would have already seen a hundred or more years’ worth of his life just by watching the many changes that have taken place in this bustling metropolis.

West vs. East

Given the city’s rich historical past, Shanghai boasts a number of still-standing architectures that have withstood the tides of time, as well as constant development threats that its own people pose against it.

Not only does it have some of the most grand colonial era buildings in the whole of China, but also the city houses the most interesting collection of pre-20th century structures which still serve the same purpose as they did in the past. For travellers Tadalis SX to experience a bit of the luxurious and sophisticated side of Shanghai life, a stroll along the British and French concessions would introduce them to restaurants that serve good food, local and international couture, luxury houses, and spacious parks. Of course it also grants them access to the Bund which is reputed for its breathtaking view of Lujiazui and the Huangpu River.

For the more adventurous and oriental theme-seeking people, Shanghai has Jing’an, Yu Yuan Garden, Old Town, and a few more to engage with. Of course their very stay in the city is in itself a mix of western and eastern influences that it would be a challenge sifting through everything. It takes a while to get used to but it’s always fun to try figuring out which is which.

Shopping with a capital $

No matter where you are in Shanghai, the sidewalks and side streets appear to be shopping points in their own right. Items of all sorts seem to pop-out of nowhere, waiting to be purchased by ecstatic customers-tourists and Kamagra jelly locals alike.

Be it daily clothes or special ones, antiques, sporting goods, or basic trinkets, Shanghai has almost everything to offer. People from all over the world see it as a top shopping destination, so don’t be surprised to see a lot of stores or boutiques with seemingly crammed with a whole battalion of purchase hungry people; it’s only normal.

If initial shopping attempts fail and frustration starts sinking in, one can always go to East Nanjing Road to have another round of search. The street has hundreds upon hundreds of shops that it almost never gets cleared.

Now, the fun part about doing shopping is buying something cheap despite being a great find. In the simpler and less tourist-known locations, it is always a good idea to bargain. Chances are, if you bargain hard enough an actual item can be as low as 20% or less of what was originally said.

Xiaolongbao and the rest of the gang

Shanghainese cuisine is as popular as its Beijing counterpart. Just as Beijing has the Peking duck to boast of, Shanghai has its very own xiaolongbao. Filled with shrimp and vermicelli juice, xiaolongbao is an all-time favourite in this city.

Be it in one of the more upscale restaurants or the simpler side street vendors, xiaolongbao is sought for its taste no matter where a person may be in Shanghai. But perhaps it would be wise to go and check among the food lane situated at the West Nanjing Road – Shimen Road intersection; the place is a haven for food lovers.

Having a taste of local Shanghainese delicacies is a definite must for first time visitors!

Non-stop construction

Perhaps one of the first things that could be noticed by people who travel to Shanghai is the overwhelming amount of construction taking place in the city. Passing through Shanghai’s Pudong side will introduce the many building projects currently underway as the city prepares for the much awaited 2010 Shanghai Expo.

Nonetheless, Shanghai does not merely focus on Expo-related construction projects. Being a bustling city that it is, much of Shanghai has ongoing road & building projects aimed at improving the quality of life in particular areas. Furthermore, more and more interesting buildings are said to come so travellers can always expect new things to see during their next visit. Shanghai continues to evolve not by the year but by the day.

Missing out on Shanghai is comparable to missing out on one of the best kept secrets of the Eastern world. With all that can be seen and done in Shanghai, people from all over the world will definitely keep going back to this amazing city.

Author Bio: Travel Associates specialize in luxury holidays, luxury travel and amazing over-water bungalows in Australia and around the world.

Category: Recreation and Leisure/Travel
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